Camping in Lincoln, New Hampshire centers around White Mountain National Forest where elevations range from 1,000 to over 4,000 feet. The region experiences significant temperature variations with summer nighttime temperatures often dropping below 50°F even when daytime highs reach the 80s. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from May through mid-October, with limited winter options available.
What to do
Hike to mountain views: Zealand Campground provides direct access to multiple 4,000-foot mountains in White Mountain National Forest. "5 - 4000 foot mountains to hike," notes one camper. The Zealand Trail leads to Zealand Falls Hut approximately 2 miles in, offering a scenic route through active beaver bogs with relatively flat terrain.
Fish without a license: Lumen Nature Retreat features a stocked private pond where guests can fish for trout and catfish without needing a fishing license. The campground combines "wooded campsites, some of them along a brook and others near a pond," according to a reviewer who appreciated this unique offering.
Explore nearby attractions: Ammonoosuc Campground serves as a central base for regional activities. "Great location and pretty central to Santa's Village, the Cog Railway, the Flume Gorge and Basin," reports one camper. The year-round operation makes it one of the few options for winter camping in the region.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Country Bumpkins Campground receives praise for its site separation despite being a smaller property. "Great spacing on the sites. Everything you need to stay to yourself," notes one visitor. The campground balances privacy with convenience, being just minutes from North Woodstock's dining options.
River sounds as natural background: Waterville Campground offers direct access to water features that enhance the camping experience. "A path leads straight down to the river, which we can hear running from the tents at night," writes one reviewer. The pine needle floor at many sites provides natural padding and noise dampening.
Clean facilities: Twin Mountain Campground maintains consistent standards with facilities. "Bathrooms and showers are clean and easily accessible from all sites," states a reviewer. The campground restricts outside music, creating a naturally quiet environment compared to other options in the region.
What you should know
Limited cell service: While some campgrounds offer WiFi, cellular coverage varies dramatically throughout the White Mountains region. "No Verizon and starlink was spotty," reports a Zealand Campground visitor, while another campground notes, "If you are going very far afield, consider downloading necessary maps and information before you go."
Seasonal closures: Most Lincoln area campgrounds operate from Memorial Day through Columbus Day, with very limited winter options. "It is now open year round, but I don't know what the facilities are like in the off-season," mentions a Twin Mountain Campground reviewer.
Wildlife encounters: Guyot Shelter and surrounding areas require proper food storage. "Bear box, food area, water source, cabin, Privy, and platforms," lists one backcountry camper. Waterville Campground visitors similarly note, "It's bear country so plan accordingly."
Tips for camping with families
Consider campground terrain: Some properties feature challenging topography. "The campground is very hilly and kids are ripping around in pedal and motorized bikes and scooters," reports a Moose Hillock Camping Resort visitor. Parents should evaluate site locations and terrain for younger children.
Select facilities based on bathroom access: Moose Hillock Camping Resort visitors recommend considering bathroom proximity when selecting sites. "The bathrooms are up the hill so it can be difficult especially for little legs going up and down," notes a family reviewer. Some campgrounds offer limited facilities which may challenge families with small children.
Plan for temperature changes: The mountain region experiences significant temperature swings. "Gets pretty cold here at night!" warns a Zealand Campground visitor. Packing extra layers and proper sleeping gear remains essential even during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RV campers should inquire about site slope before arrival. "It was slightly uphill, so we had to pull the RV all the way to the front of the site to be able to level," notes one Country Bumpkins Campground reviewer. Larger units face additional challenges at most area campgrounds.
Limited big rig access: Lincoln/Woodstock KOA accommodates larger rigs better than most regional options. "If you prefer sites suitable for large RVs, full hook-ups and activities for the kids, you'll like this campground," advises a reviewer. Many glamping options in Lincoln, New Hampshire have size restrictions due to mountain terrain and tree coverage.
Water quality concerns: Visitors to multiple campgrounds report issues with water quality. "The water is very brown/rusty. We didn't feel comfortable drinking it," mentions one camper. RVers should consider filling water tanks before arrival or bringing additional drinking water.
